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Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Every year when school starts and a new class enters my classroom, there is an anticipation and excitement of things to come. The first thing I do is ask the Lord to give me a special love for every child in my care. I pray for patience, wisdom, and the ability to reach each child, but love is the most important ingredient. There is always one or two children that challenges my very soul, but with those challenge comes changes in my own spiritual journey.

Some children refuse to let you in or have so much anger that there are walls almost impossible to move. Some children are so troubled that it is hard to understand what has caused such negative behavior. So, everyday you chip away inch by inch, brick by brick, wall by wall, until you see the slightest ray of light in their eyes and love grows in your and hopefully in their hearts. A smile may appears on a cold inexpressive face or laughter comes at an unexpected moment. These special times move your emotions and you just know or hope you know how to reach them. These are the children that no one likes, or can be very disrespectful, and are unmoved by any act of kindness. These children need to know someone cares about them more than they need math, science, reading, and social studies. When you show them love, magically, the academics emerge and they become excited about learning.

What happens to young children that cause such troubled behavior? You may or may never know, but if you can show some compassion and love you may change or save a life. Some days I fail and don't react or have the patience that I should, but I always try to do better each day. That is why I love education so much! That is how I learn as much from the children as they learn from me. That is why I must love and give of myself to reach out to the next generation and give them what God has always given me. LOVE!

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

With all of the worries about the economy, families can still enjoy fun entertainment together and stay on a budget. Why not start a family game night? Here are a few tips in getting started on a family fun filled night:

1. Schedule it. Decide in advance which day will be the family game night.

2. Involve everyone in the planning. Let your kids pick the games or choose the snack.

3. Create a tradition. Establish an activity on game night that becomes a family tradition. (ex. family-favorite dinner, how teams are chosen, or who gets the first turn)

4. Remind everyone. Set up reminders to make sure game night happens. Put a note in kids' lunchboxes. This can help build excitement.

5. Keep a family scoreboard. Have a special scoreboard and post the family member who won the last game on the board or create a family crown that can be worn at the family dinner before game night.

6. Mix it up with special guest. Invite other families and have a family game night tournament. Or invite extended family members. Just have fun.

Here are a few all-time favorites and new games to consider:Kids 6-8 - Pictureka! Sorry! Sliders, Operation, Monopoly Jr.

Monday, September 28, 2009

One of the buzz words you hear in the gyms and exercise classes is "working the core." What is the core? Your body core consist of your midsection - the muscles from your shoulders to your groin and everything in between. All your daily movements involve your core muscles. Your core muscles are responsible for helping you do many of your daily routines. In order to optimize your strength, flexibility, and balance, you must work your core muscles according to Jeffery Curpi. Try these exercise using an exercise ball.

Friday, September 25, 2009

This will be the 25Th year that the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed in the month of October. The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program is trying to reduce disparities in breast cancer among medically under-served population. The American Cancer Society is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to promote the need for and importance of their National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.

With the help of the Society and other partners, the Sister Study enrolled 50,000 women whose sisters have had breast cancer for this 10-year study. They emphasize the need for women 40 and older to get a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year.

There was a study of African American women who were diagnosed with breast cancer. It was found that for one reason or another 25% of the women diagnosed with breast cancer refused life-saving treatments. This is why it is important to get the information, research, and treatment options in the hands of the women it affects.

Every woman deserves a mammogram every year. To sign up for a mammogram reminder or send one to someone else go to www.cancer.org/breastcancer and click on the link "mammogram reminder."

Thursday, September 24, 2009

According to Jeffery Crupi, the owner of the Peak Fitness Gym in Westpoint, CT., when we physically exert ourselves, our bodies release endorphins, a "feel good" substance. When it comes to combating stress, every bit of exercise counts. Listed below are a few suggestions to incorporate into a routine exercise program and will help relieve stress.

3. Biking or running - take long bike rides or short jogs. Consider forming a bike club.

Household Chores

1. Gardening - Carrying bags of soil, planting, weeding, and watering plants can give you a moderate workout.
2. Lawn Mowing - Using a push lawn mower can give you a workout especially if you have a large yard.

3. Washing Cars - Skip the car wash and do it the old-fashioned hand and sponge method.

Yoga

The stretching and strength exercise in yoga class can help relieve stress.
Just 20 minutes of exercise a day can greatly reduce your stress. If you have stress in your life, you can't be the best spouse, parent, worker, or friend. So, try to find a way to relieve the stress in your life with aerobics, house chores, or yoga. Your family and your health will be glad you did.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

What is a house? It is a structure or building used for an individual or family to dwell in.

Then what is a home? It should be a place of refuge and safety. It should be a dwelling place of peace and laughter. Home should always be full of love and great meals and smells from the kitchen. Home is where you can always get your favorite meals and eat until your heart is content. It should be a place to relax and be yourself, a place where friends are welcome and memories are made. Home should be where the heart is and where your never uncomfortable. Home is where you long to rest your head after a long day at work. Home is where you should be able to express one self and let sorrow flow until the heart is healed. Home is where a father's strong arms of protection and a mother's warm heart of direction are imprinted in the floors and walls of every room. Home is where children learn right from wrong and how to find success outside of her walls. It doesn't necessarily have to be fancy, but it fits you perfectly. Home is comfort and where you can always find yourself.

Monday, September 21, 2009

I was reading a book of poems about dads. It is filled of words sharing appreciation for the love of a father from their daughters. Not every child can write such a poem about their father. It is very important for every child to have a father who loves, supports, and accepts him/her unconditionally. I had a father that I adored and continue to adore to this day. He always made me feel special and I never doubted his love. My sisters and I knew our father loved us. He was a man who helped love and guide his children to be respectable, independent, responsible women.

Men please love your daughters and show them what a real man should be in the life of your daughters. Show them how they should be treasured. Show your sons how a real man should treat a woman and take care of his family and business. Whatever it takes, please be in your children's lives. We need fathers to step up and be fathers more than ever.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

The family has changed greatly over the years. Today we have about half of the families being headed by a single parent. It is not easy raising children with two parents let alone raising a child or children by a single parent. There are some things that a single mom or dad can do to help get through the challenges of raising children alone.

1. Make sure you are mentally healthy and happy while in your singleness. A happy healthy parent is the key!!!

2. Never speak negatively about the absent parent. The child will figure that out in time. President Obama's mother always spoke positive about his father.

3. Try to get the absent parent to be a part of the child's life if possible. If not, leave it alone and move on to making it with you and your child/children.

4. Find a support system of people to help. This can be grandparents, uncles, aunt, church members, or friends. It takes a village to raise children and sometimes you will need a break.

5. Keep open communications with your child and know how they are feeling about the family's current standings.

6. Try to get as much education as you can to support you and your family.

7. Never introduce your friends into the family circle until the relationship is serious, and don't keep a revolving door of suitors coming and going. It sends the wrong message and is very confusing to a child.

8. Be involved as much as possible in your child's education and extracurricular activities.

For more ideas on how to get involved in your child's education, purchase my book, "A Parent's Handbook: How to Get the Best Education Possible For Your Child K-6 Grades". You can order your copy at www.besteducationpossible.com. Best wishes and God's blessings on you and your family.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

If you are married and have children, the greatest gift you can give your children is to love and respect each other. Your children will learn how to express love, communicate, and handle stress by the interaction between their parents and themselves. There is no perfect family and no perfect marriage, but there are somethings a couple can do to help their family have a healthier interaction. Here are a few gifts to give to your children:

1. Parents that love one another. Showing acceptance, support, and healthy affection. It teaches children how to develop relationships with others.

2. Healthy communication. Try not to shout, belittle, or ignore your spouse. Children bring the same communication interaction from home to school, extracurricular activities, and other social situations.

3. Keep your word. Never promise something to your spouse or children that you can not follow through with totally. When you keep your word it teaches children that you can be trusted and are dependable.

4. Get any anger under control. Angry parents usually will have angry children. The reason some children have trouble interacting in school with adults and peers is because of the troubled relationships they witness and experience at home.

So, what is the greatest gift parents can give their family? A loving supportive relationship between the parents that carry over to the rest of the family.

Friday, September 18, 2009

School has started and children are back studying. When I was young, we would run to school, run at recess, run at PE, run home, and run and play once we got home. Today, children do not run and play. They expect you to take them some where to be entertained, watch TV, or play on the computer or video games.

During the month of September why not take advantage of the warm weather. Get your child in a fitness program that can continue throughout the year. To help your child understand the benefits of physical fitness, speak with him/her often about the need to take care of themselves physically. Be a role model and openly share with them what you do to stay in shape. Discuss how your daily physical routine helps you stay healthy. If you do not have a daily fitness routine, come up with a daily routine with your child. Make the fitness routine fun. Try walking, jogging, bike riding, swimming, skating, hiking, or any exercise everyone can enjoy. Work as a team and encourage one another. Remember to warm-up for at least 5 minutes before starting the physical exercise. Then, exercise and get your heart rate up for at least 30 minutes. Finally, have a cool-down for about 5 more minutes. It will make a world of difference in your family's health.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

I don't think there is any question that racism still exist in this country, but I honestly believe that most Americans are good and fair people. The small minority of racist are just very loud and vocal. Racism didn't disappear with the election of President Obama. I think what happened is there is a group of people that are so emotional about the topic of health care and how it should be reformed that it almost seems unreasonable and beyond just difference of how health care should be reformed. The expressions of discontent are so strong and expressed so negatively in some cases in a personal manner toward President Obama, that many people question the underlining feelings behind the disagreements. When people question President Obama's citizenship, carry racist banners, and accuse him of wanting to socialize this country, many Americans feel it is more than the issues of reforming health care. The sad part is many conservative party members and leaders don't even denounce the blatant racist radio and TV talk show host filling the airwaves with nonsense and racist comments.

The one statement that has helped me balance my emotions on this topic is when Senator Kennedy's son told the story about his father and the reason he could love and respect republicans, even though he was a liberal democrat was because he knew that republicans loved this country as much as he did. I am sure that is a true statement, but if it is not racism that many Americans are expressing in these town meetings and demonstrations, then they need to learn to express their political objections without the shouting, name calling, and angry expressions. How will we ever come to a compromise on this all important issue of reforming health care if we cannot express our disagreement without expressions of hate?!

Our leaders should be the ones that show the nation how to resolve our differences in a dignified manner. If they cannot show respect for one another they should not be in office. We as Americans must stand up for right and let others know that racism is unacceptable! Our children are listening and watching! I pray for our President to have wisdom, and that he will allow God to guide his decision making. I pray for his safety and his family's safety. Let us all continue to pray for the United States of America.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Since H1N1 flu virus was first contracted, scientists have moved quickly to develop a vaccine. Thanks to long hours and hard work, a H1N1 vaccine is expected in October and only 1 injection is going to be necessary. According to James Steckelberg, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Mayo Clinic, these are the persons who should receive the vaccine first:

1. Pregnant women

2. Household contacts and caregivers for children younger than 6 months of age

3. Health care and emergency medical services personnel

4. Babies, children and teens, from 6 months through 18 years of age

5. Young adults, from 19 through 24 years of age

6. People ages 25 through 64 who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza.

H1N1 is now widespread all over the nation. Our schools are given special instructions on how to deal with this virus and students and staff are asked not to return to school until they have been without a temperature for 24 hours without the aid of medication. If everyone takes precaution by coughing and sneezing into their shirt sleeve, while keeping surfaces clean and hands washed, and those at risk get vaccinated, we should hopefully get through this. If you or your child shows sign of flu and have a temperature, please stay home.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

When a newborn is on the way, many parents become concerned about resentment building among the older siblings. Agati, A child psychologist, recommends a shift in the way we commend our children. Stop praising and start encouraging.

"Praise almost always involves a product," he explains. "Great picture. Good report card. Nice game. But then the child thinks he always has to out-produce everyone else and be Number One-and there's always someone who's bigger, faster, or brighter.

Agati suggest, instead of praising the product, encourage the way a child approaches a challenge. If two children ask who drew the better picture, comment on one's attention to detail and on the other's imagination. "Now you've encouraged both kids because you're not talking about the product but about skill, talent, and uniqueness. This should minimize some of the competition.

Parents often wonder, how siblings can be so different when they were raised in the same way? But it is impossible to rear children exactly alike because the interaction of siblings changes with every addition. I have 5 children with 5 very strong personalities and needs. There is no way in the world to treat them exactly the same, because they are so different. They have different strengths, weakeness, likes and dislikes. It is impossible to raise them exactly the same. I only wish I had a magic pill that made every decision perfect. It not going to happen. I say raise them to love and respect themselves, love one another and have a genuine concern for the families well-being and you've done more than enough.

To read more about sibling competition read the entire article by Rich Maloff for MSN Health & Fitness

Monday, September 14, 2009

I just found out about a parent group that meet once a week to pray, and they call themselves Moms In Touch International. This group of moms meets for 1 hour and prays for the children, the schools, teachers, and staff. We have a group in Northwest Huntsville City Schools that meets on Tuesdays at Union Hill Primitive Baptist Church from 8:30 to 9:30. Wouldn't it be powerful for a group of parents from every school district in this country to take 1 hour a week and pray for the success of our schools. I believe that prayer changes things and to have a group of spiritually concerned moms praying for us as we work and guide their children is a comforting thought. We may not be able to pray openly in public schools, but there is nothing stopping parents from praying for us as we try to go about educating and directing their children. Let's come up with more supportive ideas to advance our schools so that every child receives the "Best Education Possible". There are more ideas and things to do for your schools in my book, "A Parent's Handbook: How to Get the Best Education Possible for Your Child K-6 Grade". Purchase a copy today at besteducationpossible.com and get involved.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Our pastor, Dr. Julius Scruggs, has the honor of serving as the next president of the National Baptist Convention, USA. He is the pastor at the First Missionary Baptist Church, in Huntsville, Alabama. The National Baptist Convention, USA is the largest black religious organization in this country. What a privilege and honor for him. He is a highly anointed, God fearing servant, and I know he will do an outstanding service for the organization.

Let us all keep him in our prayers that God will lead out in every decision he makes. He got over 80% of the vote which shows the confidence members have in his leadership. Pastor Scruggs and his wife Josephine were the first individuals outside of my family that I shared my latest book, "A Parent's Handbook: How to Get the Best Education Possible For Your Child K-6 Grades". They both prayed for this project and encouraged me during the entire process of completing the book. I want to thank them both for their spiritual leadership, friendship, and continuing prayers. It is a blessing and a privilege to worship in a Bible teaching congregation that studies the word and encourages everyone to grow in their personal spiritual walk and grow in love above all things.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

It is really tough for children today! Peer pressure has always been a problem for children, but it seems that it is even more difficult to walk away from temptations because of strong peer influences, and the technology that is available to children everyday. Some kids find it difficult to resist peer pressure because they want to be liked and accepted. Others just find it fascinating and want to be adventurous and curious. The media and music industry do not help by making children think that elude behavior is normal and everyone is doing it, and at times glorifying drugs, sex, and violence.

The most important thing a child can have to resist peer pressure is a strong moral foundation, supportive and loving parents, and friends that have the same moral standard or higher. Know your child's friend, where they are going, and what they are doing. (especially on the Internet and the music they are listening to) If you find your child does not make good choices or is a follower, try to redirect them in a firm but caring way, and seek help from other parents who seem to be successful with their children. Do not hesitate to get professional help if needed. Start early, it can save you and your child heart ache and pain.

Friday, September 11, 2009

America will never forget 911! I remember it like it was yesterday. I remember watching the horror on TV with disbelief. We must remember the brave men and women without thought for their own safety risking their lives to save others. People experiencing fear we can only image. This day should remind us that there are men and women protecting us all over the world. We need to pray for the families that lost loved ones and for the troops serving to protect our freedom.

America needs to unite in the name of these brave individuals and come up with real solutions and not petty differences. Our children need to understand the sacrifices people have made for them to go to school and get an education, have freedom of speech, practice religious freedoms, and endless opportunities for them to become whatever they are willing to work hard toward achieving. We should unite because we are one nation under God and we should represent that statement in everything we do. May we never forget what happened on 911. Decide as a family to do some type of service for others. Decide to do something that will make this country a better place. You will be blessed in helping others. God bless you and your family this day, and God bless the United States of America!

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Over-scheduling your children can take a toll on everyone in the family. You and your child will feel like you are doing ten things at once. It can affect family life, health, friendships, and school grades. Sooner or later, kids who are too busy will begin to show signs of wearing down. Every child is different, but if your child feels tired, anxious, or seems depressed, it may mean you need to look at the extracurricular schedule and readjust somethings. Some children complain of headaches, stomachaches, stop eating regularly, and can't sleep. The key to scheduling thing is moderation and choosing activities that are age appropriate, of interest to the child, and the child has some success in participating in the activity. Finally, make sure the schedule is not over-taxing for you because that can cause another stressful situation. Whatever your child is involved in affects everyone in the family. Make sure it is a positive and fun experience. To read more on this topic go to KidsHealth.org and read the article entitled, "Are Your Kids Too Busy"?

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Parents are a child's first and most influential teacher. Therefore, the schools should and must have a strong, positive, partnership with parents. From involving families in the first day of school, to the principals and teachers getting to know the parents (and making home visits when necessary), to hosting no fewer than 10 fun, informational family events throughout the year. I believe with the school and family friendly partnership, our schools will reach their full potential. I teach at a magnet school in Huntsville, Alabama, and I know that the key ingredent to the success of our program is a strong academic program, capable administrators and teachers, and strong parential involvement. We work as a family and the health and success of any family is that everyone is important and must be successful. We are only as strong as the weakest link. So, parents please, please, please get involved. To find out how to get involved purchase my recently released book, "A Parent's Handbook: How to Get the Best Education For Your Child K-6. You'll be glad you did!

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

It really saddens me that some parents in this country decided they did not want their children to hear the speech from President Obama today. He challenged all students to take pride and ownership in their education. Our children stand every morning and say the pledge of allegiance to our flag, we have young men and women all over the world defending our freedoms, and some of us refuse to let our children hear an inspirational speech from our President! I could care less if you are republican or democrat, conservative, liberal or independent, our country is in deep trouble when we cannot stand behind our leader when he simply trying to tell our children the importance of respecting the educational institutions, staying in school, and striving to be the best, so our country will continue to be a world leader. It should not matter if you voted for President Obama or not, it is time to put aside difference and support our president for the advancement of this country. People need to search their hearts and minds to find out the underlining reasons for such discontentment. Let's teach our children to love, respect, and serve our nation that the forefathers fought and died for.

Monday, September 7, 2009

Kids with healthy self-esteem tend to enjoy interacting with others. They are comfortable in group settings and independent activities. They have strength and weaknesses that they know about, accept, and work toward strengthening. How can parents help their child in building a good self-esteem? According to the article, "Developing Your Child's Self-Esteem", from KidsHealth.org, you need to:

Sunday, September 6, 2009

The purpose and goal of most parents and teachers is to prepare children to succeed both in school and in life. In order for children to go out and get good employment to take care of themselves and their families, they must have an excellent education. The competition is global. In order for your child to "Get the Best Education Possible", you must make their education a priority. Let your child know that you expect him/her to go to school and get a good education, as well as respecting those in charge and obeying all the rules and regulations. You are the role model, so remember speak positively about school, administrators, teachers, and students. The question that needs to be answered is, " are you and your child's school preparing him/her to be a successful, productive, citizen for the 21st century. My recently released book,"A Parent's Handbook: How to Get the Best Education Possible for Your Child K-6th Grade will assist you on reaching those goals. Go to besteducation.com and purchase a copy today. Make education a priority for your child's future.

Saturday, September 5, 2009

In the beginning, there was Howdy Doody and Bozo the Clown. Now, there is Big Bird, Nick, Disney, and Dora the Explorer, just to name a few. Doctors advocate "media literacy" Daniel McGinn, suggest making wise TV choices. Some tips from the article, Guilt Free TV":

1. Set limits: Kid under 2 should be discouraged from watching TV. Older children should be rationed to 2 hours of daily TV, computer, and videogames.

2. Pull up a chair: Co-view with kids. Make sure the show is appropriate and encourage interaction with good messages. Talk about the show when it is over.

3. No TV in bedrooms: This leads to unsupervised viewing and a potential for overdose.

4. Use TV-book synergy: Kids programming from "Arthur" to "The Book of Pooh" often comes from books. After watching the show, read the book.

Friday, September 4, 2009

Regular exercise can promote overall good health, confidence and a positive self image for your child. According to Jeffery Crupi, owner of the Peak Fitness Gym in Westport, CT., it is important to promote a positive attitude toward physical fitness. When getting your child interested in a physical fitness program consider the following guidelines:

3. Plan for success - To ensure your child succeeds, parents should encourage their child to create realistic and attainable fitness goals4. Constant feedback - Feedback that is both verbal and nonverbal can go a along way in stimulating a child's participation in physical fitness

5. Role modeling - Being a positive role model can help influence a child's commitment to a fitness program

Thursday, September 3, 2009

There is scientific evidence that girls and boys learn differently. According to Michael Gurian, educator and family therapist, girls talk sooner, develop better vocabularies, read better, and have better fine motor skills. Boys, on the other hand, have better auditory memory, are better at three-dimensional reasoning, are more prone to explore, and achieve greater abstract design ability after puberty. What does all this mean? There are new researched based methods to educate our children based on brain science, neurological development, and chemical and hormonal disparities. This is why parents should not compare children and understand the simple fact that boys and girls learn differently. They also develop at different rates. So, be patient and watch for any unusual delays in development before becoming alarmed.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Being diagnosed with cancer is always shocking and often seems unreal, for both the patients and their families. It's OK for people facing cancer diagnosis to take time to adjust to the news and prepare to make treatment decisions. Parents often hesitate to tell their children about family members having cancer. According to Steven Applebaum, M.D., kids are smarter then we think, and are emotionally able to handle an age-appropriate amount of information. Children are also very sensitive to adults, and will often sense when important news is being hidden from them. Applebaum also suggest allowing children to be a part of the patient's support system; they can really rise to the occasion and offer powerful love and affection to the patient. I feel you know your child, and should make the decision on how involved you want him or her to be in that support system.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Years ago, depression was thought to be for adults only. Dr. David Brent, a professor of child psychiatry at the University of Pittsburg, states,"If you become depressed at 25, you have coping skills. But at age 11, there's a lot you need to learn, and you may never learn it." The dramatic social and biological changes that occur during adolescence are enough to cause even the healthiest teen to go over the edge, but when moodiness interferes with daily activities, it can be an early sign of depression.

Warning sign for teen depression according to Ronald Dahu M.d. If five or more of these symptoms persist for two or more weeks, they may indicate teen depression:

1. Vague physical complaints, such as headaches

2. Frequent absences from school or drop in grades

3. Bouts of shouting or crying

4. Reckless behavior

5. Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure

6. Loss of interest in friends

Depression rates jump after puberty, especially in girls. Up to 7% of severely depressed teens commit suicide. This is why it is important to recognize teen depression and get help for those who suffer with it.